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Clinical Trial ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 1 ? Systematic review or meta-analysis. Synthesizes findings across many studies. Strongest evidence. Environmental Sources Gut & Microbiome Human Health Effects Nanoplastics Remediation Sign in to save

Effect of Polystyrene Nanoplastic on Colon, Liver, and Spleen Histopathology of Rats (Rattus norvegicus L.)

LenteraBio Berkala Ilmiah Biologi 2025
Diyah Utari, Alfiah Hayati, Inge Permatasari, Lina Afiifatul Abroroh, Nisrina Qatrunada, Rosida, Sasanaqia Maulidah, M.P. Suria Hayati, Putri Ayu Ika Setiyowati, Putri Ayu Ika Setiyowati, Dwi Winarni, Sugiharto Sugiharto, Firli Rahmah Primula Dewi, Manikya Pramudya

Summary

This study exposed rats to different concentrations of polystyrene nanoplastics and examined the effects on their colon, liver, and spleen. The results showed tissue damage including inflammation and cell death in all three organs, with higher concentrations causing more severe effects. These findings suggest that nanoplastics small enough to enter the body can cause organ-level damage, raising concerns about long-term human exposure.

Polymers
PS
Body Systems
Digestive Hepatic Immune Musculoskeletal
Models
Rat

Polystyrene, when exposed to ultraviolet light, can break down into nanoplastics (NPs), which enter the body and elevate reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative stress which can damage cell structure and function by causing inflammation, necrosis, and tissue degeneration in target organs such as the colon, liver, and spleen. This study specifically investigates the impact of NPs on rats’ colons, livers, and spleens. The experimental design was completely randomized, comprising one control group and three treatment groups (n=6). The treatment groups were exposed to NPs concentrations of 1, 2, and 4 μL/kg, administered orally for 35 days. Tissue samples from the colon, liver, and spleen were collected, processed, and stained with H&E. Findings in the colon indicated an increase in submucosal and muscular thickness and a reduction in crypt length with higher NPs concentrations. In the liver, higher NPs concentrations resulted in a decrease in the percentage of normal and oedematous hepatocytes, along with an increase in necrotic hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and the diameters of the portal and central veins. The spleen showed enlargement in the white pulp and germinal centre diameters, and increased thickness in the periarterial lymphoid sheath (PALS) and marginal zone. This study highlights the critical need to reduce NPs pollution to mitigate potential health risks.

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